Understanding Jordanian Women's Values and Beliefs Related to Breast Cancer: A Focused Ethnography.

Abstract

To understand Jordanian women's beliefs and values related to breast health and how these beliefs influence their decisions to receive breast cancer screening. A focused ethnography method was used; 31 key informants were recruited from Ma'an city located in the southern part of Jordan. Data were collected using semistructured interviews. Leininger's four phases of qualitative data analysis. Three major themes were identified: (a) Feeling of embarrassment, fear, denial, and lack of knowledge are common experience among women regarding breast cancer screening; (b) Hesitancy on the part of health care professionals to offer education about breast health and screening; and (c) Willingness to learn about breast health and cancer screening. Based on the findings, it is recommended that nurses be trained about breast assessment and additional resources mobilized for mammography and health promotion programs targeting rural Jordan.